Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University is hosting a luncheon to help bring awareness and advocacy on global issues that also affect the local community.  

Melanie Fields, assistant district attorney, will speak on the rising issue of domestic violence. The event will be in person and virtual on Wednesday, November 18 from 1-2:30 p.m. at 5414 Brittany Drive.

FranU Campus Minister Tammy Vidrine said that – "as a Catholic University we are called to educate our community on Catholic Social Teaching of the Church and how global and local issues impact those we serve."  “We form our students to be integrated thinkers, and it is Campus Ministry's role to guide students spiritually but also to teach students how to be aware and advocate on these issues in line with Catholic Social Teaching. We bring in expert speakers to help us inform and educate our community. This year's theme focuses on the CST of Human Dignity with a particular focus on the issue of Domestic Violence.”

FranU student leaders and staff selected the issue because Louisiana is now at the top of the list for Domestic Violence cases in the nation since COVID.

Speaker Melanie Fields serves on the board for The Capital Area Family Violence Center which opened in October and will provide various services for survivors of domestic violence. She also serves as the Special Prosecutor of Domestic Violence, handling some of the most difficult and complex cases.

“Part of our campaign for advocacy includes fundraising,” Vidrine continued. “We are also raising funds to help provide for the basic essential needs of these victims. When victims arrive at safe houses, they arrive with nothing. They and their children have only the clothes on their backs.  Our funds raised can help provide some things for them.”

There will be limited participation for the in person luncheon due to COVID restrictions, but FranU is offering an online viewing as well. The event is open to the campus community and any of our partners and wider community interested in learning more about our role and responsibility on this issue. The last day to register is November 13 at noon and the event is free.

SUMMARY 

• WHAT: Luncheon to Help Stop Domestic Violence
• WHEN: November 18 from 1-2:30 p.m.
• WHERE: 414 Brittany Drive.
• HOW: In person can register at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FCGINPERSON
  Virtual can register at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FCGVirtual